"12. Heartfelt Morning"

"Chehra aisa ki Chand ko bhi

Sharmane pe majbur karde

Muskaan aisi ki patthar ko bhi

Pighalne pe Vivash karde"

-Fictionflare_

The soft rays of sunlight filtered through the curtains, gently illuminating the room and casting a warm glow on both Rudraksh and Ruhanika’s faces. They were still deeply asleep, wrapped in each other's arms, their expressions reflecting a rare sense of peace, as if they were finally resting after a long period of unrest. Ruhanika’s eyes fluttered open as the light began to stir her from her slumber. Instinctively, she rubbed her face against Rudraksh’s chest, seeking the warmth and comfort she found there, trying to hide her face in his neck to block out the sunlight. Her movement disturbed Rudraksh, who shifted slightly and turned his face away, but remained asleep. As Ruhanika slowly opened her eyes, her gaze traveled up, realizing where she was—and more importantly, who she was snuggled against.

Ruhanika's POV:

As I blinked my eyes to adjust to the light, I felt something warm beneath my cheek. Curious, I lifted my head slightly to see what it was. My eyes widened in surprise as I realized I was completely sprawled over my husband. A sudden rush of realization made me freeze for a second. I tried to gently pull back, but something held me in place. I glanced down and noticed his strong hands wrapped securely around my waist, holding me close. A smile tugged at my lips as I processed the scene—he must have hugged me in his sleep, maybe feeling scared and needing comfort, just like I did. He must’ve had a bad dream about a ghost, that’s why he hugged me so tightly.

(Author: Waah Ruhi, ulta chor qotwal ko daatein😝)

I rested my chin on his chest, gazing at his peaceful face. He’s so pretty-pretty, I thought with a smile. And even more “pyaara pyaara” when he’s sleeping. But then, my mind drifted to how different he could be when he’s angry. When he’s mad, it’s like he transforms into “Mahadev ka Raudra roop," I thought with a shiver. I used to be scared of him back then, but even from the very beginning, he’s always made me feel safe. I reflected on how there was never anything bad in his eyes—nothing like what I’d seen in others. He’s so different, always protecting me like my Nima used to. A soft warmth filled my heart as I continued to admire him. And just like he’s always there for me when I’m scared, I promise I’ll be there for him too, whenever he’s afraid or needs someone.His eyes are so mesmerizing—I really want to look into them, but he’s still asleep. After kissing him last night, I feel like doing it again, but I’m worried he might get upset. No, I’ll resist the urge. I noticed some of his hair falling across his face and decided to gently push it back. Oh, his hair is so soft and silky. I couldn’t help but admire the small details that make him so special to me. The best part about him is how he listens to me. Even though my throat feels sore because I haven’t spoken much in the past 3 to 3.5 years, I find myself wanting to open up completely to him. I want to share everything—the things that send chills down my spine. However, Mama and Mami had restricted me not to ttell anything to him, so I’ve held it all in. But being with him makes me feel like I could pour out my heart and cry freely. It’s been so suffocating keeping everything inside. But he’s my husband, and I shouldn’t hide anything from him. I need to figure out how to approach this. Maybe I should ask him only whether to share or not and  if he asks me to. If he says he wants to know, I’ll open up; if not, I’ll respect his wishes. That seems like the best approach, just like him. Right now, though, all I want to do is look at him. He must be hungry, so I should get up and prepare something for him. I remember his brother mentioned he would tell me about his favorite dishes, so I’ll ask him about that. With a grin on my face, I slowly started to move his arms off me. As I was about to get out of bed, I remembered he had told me not to walk too much. But I really want to make something for him. It’s okay if he gets upset with me; he can scold me but I’m determined to cook for him. I stepped down carefully, noticing that my feet weren’t hurting too much. I made my way to the walking closet that he had shown me yesterday. I searched for clothes, but it seemed like it only had his garments. Maybe he needs more time to organize clothes for me. So, I selected a shirt and sweatpants—he had taught me the names of these garments. After heading into the washroom to freshen up, I changed into his clothes. They were still too long for me, and while I managed to tie the strings of the pajama, the sleeves remained a challenge. I emerged from the washroom, struggling with the long sleeves and feeling a bit frustrated. I wondered how he managed to fold them so effortlessly. It seemed like something I should learn from him eventually.

Author's POV,

As Ruhanika emerged from the washroom, the first rays of morning light softly illuminated the room. Rudraksh, still groggy from sleep but alert, stirred as he noticed her. His protective instincts kicked in instantly. With a burst of energy, he threw off the duvet and swiftly crossed the room. In a fluid motion, he gathered her up into his arms, lifting her with ease. Ruhanika, initially startled by the sudden action, looked up at him with wide eyes. However, as she met his gaze, her initial surprise melted into a calm acceptance and nestled comfortably against him.

Rudraksh: "Chalne se mana kiya tha na, sunti kyu nahi ho??"

(I told you not to walk, didn’t I? Why don’t you listen?)

Rudraksh gently placed Ruhanika back on the bed and began folding the sleeves of her shirt with care.

Ruhanika: "Hume washroom jaana tha."

(I needed to go to the washroom.)

Rudraksh: "Toh utha deti mujhe."

(Then you should’ve woken me up.)

Ruhanika: "Par aap raat ko darr gaye the, isiliye humne socha ki aap araam kare."

(But you were scared last night, so I thought you should rest.)

Rudraksh knelt beside her to fold the sweatpants, ensuring they were just the right length for her.

Rudraksh: "Chup ekdum, abhi aur tabiyat kharab ho jati toh yaar, samjha Karo na betu please."

(Quiet, please! What if your condition had gotten worse? Try to understand, kiddo, please.)

Ruhanika: "Maaf kar dijiye."

(I’m sorry.)

Rudraksh gazed at her innocent face, and his anger softened. He gently patted her cheeks, a tender smile replacing his previous frustration.

Rudraksh: "Achcha thik hai koi baat nahi, ab batao dard hai kahi??"

(Okay, it’s fine. Is there any pain anywhere now?)

Ruhanika shook her head with a smile, her eyes twinkling.

Rudraksh: "matlab dawaiya asar kar rahi hai."

(that mean, the medicine are working)

Ruhanika: "Haa dekhiye ab hum atak bhi nahi rahe bolte waqt, bas awaaz saaf nahi hai"

(Yes, see, I’m not even stuttering while speaking anymore, just my voice isn’t clear yet.)

Rudraksh: "Areh haa, chalo awaaz bhi jaldi hi sahi ho jayegi."

(Oh yes, well, your voice will get better soon too.)

Ruhanika nodded, and Rudraksh stood up.

Rudraksh: "tum yahi raho, main fresh hoke aata hu phir niche chalenge."

(Stay here, I’ll freshen up and then we’ll go downstairs.)

Ruhanika: "Kya hum abhi niche ja sakte hai??"

(Can I go downstairs now?)

Rudraksh: "kyu??"

(Why?)

Ruhanika: "Hum aapke liye nashta banana chahte hai, aur aapke dost aur aapke Bhai se bhi humne promise Kiya tha ki hum unka manpasand khana banayenge."

(I want to make breakfast for you. And I promised your friend and your brother that I’d make their favorite dishes too.)

Rudraksh's heart melted like chocolate at Ruhanika's heartfelt desire to cook something for him, a sentiment he hadn't heard in ages. The warmth of her words was enough to soften him entirely. However, his expression turned stern when she mentioned wanting to cook for Ashvik and Rishwik as well.

Rudraksh: "Koi zarurat hai un dono bewakoofo ke liye kuch banane ki."

(There’s no need to make anything for those two idiots.)

Ruhanika: "Par humne unse vaada..."

(But I promised them...)

Rudraksh: "sirf araam karogi tum, iske alawa kuch nahi atleast 1 hafta uske baad jo karna hai Karo."

(You’re just going to rest, nothing else, for at least a week. After that, you can do whatever you want.)

Ruhanika: "uske baad kuch bhi??"

(Anything after that?)

Rudraksh: "Haan"

(Yes.)

Ruhanika grinned and nodded, her eyes twinkling with enthusiasm.

Ruhanika: "Okay, aap jaiye jaldi taiyar ho jaiye hum yahi aapka intezar karenge."

(Okay, go get ready quickly, I’ll wait here for you.)

Rudraksh smiled warmly and gazed at Ruhanika with admiration. She, too, was looking at him with a bright smile. After a moment, she poked his hand, her eyes twinkling with a mix of confusion and concern.

Ruhanika: "Kya humse koi galti huyi?? Aap aise kyu dekh rahe hai???"

(Did I do something wrong? Why are you looking at me like that?)

Rudraksh: "Kuch nahi, aata hu main."

(Nothing, I’ll be right back.)

Ruhanika nodded and Rudraksh headed towards the washroom. After a short while, he emerged dressed casually, having decided to stay with Ruhanika rather than go to the office. As he approached her, preparing to lift her, Ruhanika gently stopped him. Rudraksh looked at her with a puzzled expression, wondering why she had halted his gesture.

Ruhanika: "Vo hum chal sakte hai ab, pairon me dard nahi hai."

(I can walk now, there’s no pain in my legs.)

Rudraksh: "Thik hai, par kuch din baad chalna shuru karna, aur ab chup.

(Fine, but start walking after a few days. And now, quiet.)

Rudraksh lifted Ruhanika effortlessly and started making his way out of the room. As he approached the stairs, Ruhanika gently patted his shoulder. Rudraksh raised his eyebrows in a silent question, asking what she needed.

Ruhanika: "vo us kamre me le chalenge do minute?"

(Can you take me to that room for two minutes?)

Rudraksh, puzzled by Ruhanika's request, recalled that when he had gone to fetch her clothes earlier, he hadn't found anything in the wardrope. Nonetheless, he carried her to the room she indicated. Ruhanika pointed towards the bedside drawer, and Rudraksh carefully approached it.

Ruhanika: "Hume zara niche utariye."

(Please just put me down)

Rudraksh carefully placed Ruhanika on the bed, his curiosity piqued as he watched her every move. She bent forward to open the bedside drawer and retrieved a small box, holding it delicately in her hands. Rudraksh's curiosity deepened; he couldn't fathom what could be inside such a modest container. With a soft smile, Ruhanika slowly opened the box, revealing a vibrant red powder within. Rudraksh's eyes widened in surprise. As he recognized the vermillion, a rush of unfamiliar warmth and emotion filled his heart. A wave of warmth and unfamiliar emotion washed over him, touching his heart deeply as he realized the significance of the vermillion in their culture and what it represented. Rudraksh stood there, astonished and touched, as he realized that the vermillion was meant for him. Ruhanika planned to apply it on her hairline as a mark of her devotion and commitment, a gesture he had not expected. To him, she had been more of a responsibility than a partner, yet this simple act filled him with profound joy. Ruhanika carefully reached for a pinch of the vermillion, but then paused, her eyes turning to Rudraksh with hopeful anticipation. The silent request in her gaze was clear: she wanted his blessing, his acknowledgment of the symbolic gesture she was about to make. Rudraksh's heartbeat quickened as he realized what Ruhanika was asking of him. The last time he had filled her hairline with vermillion was during their wedding, a moment overshadowed by his obsession with revenge and a turbulent past. But now, with a clearer understanding of her innocence and the deepening feelings in his heart, he knew he could never deny her anything. He realized that his heart could never deny her anything, not even if it meant giving up his own life.

Ruhanika: "Kya aap bhar denge??"

(Will you fill it?)

Rudraksh nodded absentmindedly, and Ruhanika’s face lit up with a broad smile, revealing her dimples. The sight made his heart melt completely. For the first time in decades, a genuine smile appeared on his face, all because of his innocent and joyful wife. With a tender smile of his own, Rudraksh approached her and took a pinch of vermillion. As he carefully applied it to her hairline, he felt a profound sense of contentment. As he did, Ruhanika's eyes sparkled with pure happiness, and Rudraksh felt a profound sense of fulfillment. At that moment, he realized that seeing her so content was all he truly wanted in life.

Rudraksh: "Roz lagati ho.?"

(You apply this every day?)

Ruhanika: "jii, Roz lagate hai, shadi ke baad toh lagate hai, aapko nahi pata?? Dekhiye hum toh mangalsutra bhi pehente hai Roz."

(Yes, I apply it every day. You don’t know? I also wear my nuptial chain every day after marriage.)

Ruhanika’s voice was soft as she spoke, drawing Rudraksh’s attention to her nuptial chain. He looked at the delicate chain around her neck, which bore his initial, and a swell of pride filled him. The realization that she belonged to him in such a personal and enduring way was both reassuring and exhilarating. But then, his gaze shifted to another gold chain that she wore, adorned with a locket engraved with an "R" in an intricate design. Rudraksh’s eyes narrowed slightly, as he felt a flicker of recognition. He was sure he had seen a similar locket somewhere before, but his thoughts were quickly pulled back to Ruhanika as she continued speaking.

(Author: Lo ji ek aur suspense 😜)

Ruhanika: "Aap Jante hai hume laga ye "R" ka matlab humara naam hoga par phir hume aapka naam pata chala, tab hum samjhe ki ye toh aapke naam ka hai."

(You know, I thought the "R" would be for my name, but then I learned your name, and realized it’s for you.)

Ruhanika smiled, her eyes gently gazing down at her nuptial chain. The happiness was evident on her face as she cherished the symbolic connection it represented between her and Rudraksh.

Rudraksh: "Toh kya tumhe nahi pasand ye?? Change karva du??"

(So you don’t like it? Should I get it changed?)

Ruhanika: "Arehh nahi nahi, hume bahaut pasand hai, kaisi baatein kar rahe hai aap?? Shadi ki nishani ko badalte thodi hai."

(Oh no, no, I love it! How can you say that? You can’t change a symbol of marriage!)

Rudraksh found himself completely captivated by her words and the depth of her brown eyes. He could hardly look away, mesmerized by the sincerity and warmth she radiated. The connection between them was palpable, as both of them seemed reluctant to look away from each other.

Rudraksh: "taude aakhan di masoomiyat, sadde dil di dhadkan nu tez karandi hai."

(The innocence in your eyes makes my heart race.)

Ruhanika’s eyebrows furrowed in confusion as she struggled to grasp Rudraksh’s words, her brow wrinkling with curiosity. Despite her puzzled expression, Rudraksh remained completely absorbed in the depth of her eyes. The way she looked at him, so earnest and innocent, had him entranced, making it hard for him to focus on anything else.

Ruhanika: "Ji aapne kya kaha abhi?? Hum samjhe nahi."

(What did you just say? I didn’t understand.)

Rudraksh: "Jado main takka Teri ore, sannu kisi hor da hosh nahi, teri akhiyaan vich Noor vo Edda hai, kade hor wal vekhha vi nahi janda"

(When I look at you, I can’t think about anyone else. There’s so much light in your eyes, I can’t look away.)

Ruhanika pouted and gazed at Rudraksh with a look of utter confusion.

Ruhanika: "Aap keh kya rahe hai? Hum ek shabd bhi nahi samajh pa rahe hai."

(What are you saying? I can’t understand a single word.)

Ruhanika asked him again, but he remained lost in his thoughts. With no other way to get his attention, she gently tugged at the hem of his T-shirt. When that didn’t work, she poked him on the arm. The gentle touch jolted Rudraksh back to the present, and he blinked, focusing on her once more.

Rudraksh: "Huhh??"

Ruhanika: "Aap kya kehte hai?? Hum kuch samajh nahi paate. Dekhiye aap jo bhi bhasha bol rahe hai hume nahi aati hai vo."

(What are you saying? I can’t understand anything. Look, whatever language you’re speaking, I don’t know it.)

Rudraksh began shifting his gaze around the room, deliberately avoiding Ruhanika’s eyes. Her gaze had a captivating power that seemed to reach deep into his heart, and he found himself unable to maintain eye contact as he struggled to keep his composure.

Rudraksh: "Shukr hai nahi aati, Varna main toh abhi is dharti me sama jaata."

(Thankfully you don’t know it, otherwise, I’d have wanted to sink into the ground right now.)

Rudraksh murmured quietly to himself, ensuring that Ruhanika couldn't hear his words.

Ruhanika: "Kya??"

(What??)

Rudraksh: "Kuch nahi, chalo tumhari dawai ka waqt ho gaya hai, nashta kar lo."

(Nothing, come on, it’s time for your medicine. Have breakfast now.)

Ruhanika nodded, still puzzled by Rudraksh's behavior. She started to stand up but stopped when Rudraksh gave her a single, firm glance. Understanding his silent command, she sat back down, lowered her head, and extended her hands towards him, signaling him to lift her. Rudraksh couldn't help but smile at her adorable reaction.

Rudraksh carefully carried Ruhanika down the stairs to the dining area. As they reached the dining table, Rishwik, who was already seated and munching on an apple, noticed them. His face lit up with excitement, and he immediately began singing a cheerful tune, clearly delighted to see them together.

Rishwik: "Haste haste kut jaye raste Zindagi yunhi chalti rahe."

(Let the roads be shortened with laughter, may life keep moving).

Rudraksh glanced at Rishwik with a puzzled expression as he placed Ruhanika gently into her seat. Rishwik, with a playful smirk, looked back at Rudraksh. Sensing the mischief, Rudraksh chose to ignore his younger brother’s antics and focused on making sure Ruhanika was comfortable.

Rishwik: "Haan hasi ban gaye, Haan nami ban gaye, tum mere aasman, meri zameen ban gaye."

(You became my smile, you became my tears, you became my sky, you became my earth).

Rudraksh shot Rishwik an exasperated look as he settled into the chair beside Ruhanika. Rishwik, with a teasing smirk, raised his eyebrows at Rudraksh, clearly enjoying the playful interaction.

Rudraksh: "Pagal hai kya?? Subah subah kya ho gaya hai tujhe??"

(Have you lost your mind? What’s wrong with you so early in the morning?)

Rishwik: "Haa tujhe.."

(Yes, you...)

Rudraksh raised his eyebrows at Rishwik, who quickly adjusted his wordings.

Rishwik: "Haan, aapko pyaar hua, pyaar hua, Allah Miya."

(Yes, you've fallen in love, fallen in love, oh God.)

Rudraksh glared at Rishwik, but today Rishwik was determined not to back down from his brother's dominance. Before Rudraksh could say anything, Ruhanika interrupted.

Ruhanika: "Inke bhai, aap achcha gaate hai."

(His brother, you sing really well.)

Rishwik smiled at Ruhanika, clearly pleased that she had come to his aid.

Rishwik: "Thank you Angel, atleast tumhe kadar hai mere talent ki."

(Thank you, Angel, at least you appreciate my talent.)

Ruhanika also smiled at Rishwik.

Rudraksh: "Ye muskurane ka samaroh sampann ho gaya ho toh nashta kar le??"

(If the smiling ceremony has concluded, can we have breakfast now?)

Rudraksh taunted both Rishwik and Ruhanika, but it seemed that his stars were not in his favor today, as they were both too determined to let his comments bother them.

Ruhanika: "Muskurane ka bhi samaroh hota hai?? Kya usme sirf muskurate hai?? Par koi bewajah kyu muskurayega?? Usme kya hota hai??"

(A smiling ceremony? Is that where people just smile? But why would anyone smile for no reason? What happens at such a ceremony?)

Rudraksh: "Tum chup chap se nashta Karo yaar, subah huyi nahi ki sawaal shuru tumhare."

(You just eat your breakfast quietly, alright? The day barely started and your questions have already begun.)

Ruhanika started to speak, but Rudraksh gently fed her some grapes, silencing her.

Rishwik: "Haa angel, hum dono nahi muskura sakte, vo kya hai na hasne ka copywrite toh kisi aur ne le rakha hai, vo bhi sirf tumhare sath."

(Yes, Angel, the two of us can’t smile because, you see, the copyright to laughter is held by someone else—and only with you.)

Ruhanika didn't quite grasp what Rishwik was saying, but Rudraksh understood immediately. His eyes widened in surprise, and he started coughing. Reacting swiftly, Ruhanika stood up and held a glass of water to his lips. Rudraksh drank gratefully, while Rishwik hurriedly stood up to rub Rudraksh's back, trying to help him recover.

Rudraksh: "I'm ok."

Ruhanika: "Pakka thik hai??"

(Are you sure?)

Rudraksh: "Tum uth kyu gayi?? Baitho vapas jaldi."

(Why did you get up? Sit back down, quickly.)

Ruhanika sat back down in her seat, still a bit concerned but relieved to see Rudraksh okay.

Rudraksh: "ab tu baithega ya special invitation du tujhe nashta karne ke liye??"

(Now, will you sit or should I send a special invitation for breakfast?)

Rishwik: "nashte ke liye nahi, par agli baar apne hasne ke samaroh me bulana zarur."

(Not for breakfast, but definitely invite me to your next "smiling ceremony.")

Rudraksh shot a fierce glare at Rishwik, but Rishwik just chuckled and settled back into his seat.

Rudraksh meticulously served breakfast on Rishwik's plate first, as he had always done. It was a small but significant gesture that reflected their deep bond—Rudraksh had always prioritized Rishwik, and the two had been each other's steadfast support. As Rudraksh placed the food on his own plate, he glanced at Rishwik. To Rishwik's delight, Rudraksh offered him a rare, genuine smile and a nod. Rishwik’s grin broadened, a reflection of his long-awaited joy at seeing his elder brother happy. Moved by the moment, Rishwik stood up and embraced Rudraksh. Rudraksh returned the hug, patting Rishwik’s back with a warmth that spoke volumes.

Rishwik: "Thank you, thank you so much Angel."

Rudraksh frowned slightly and patted Rishwik's back more firmly than usual, a silent reminder of his typically stoic demeanor. Rishwik pulled back, his grin fading but not entirely gone.

Rishwik: "Ouchh. Kya kiya ye"

(Ouch, what was that?)

Rudraksh: "Gale mujhe laga raha hai aur Thanks Ruh ko?? Aisa kyu??"

(You're hugging me, but thanking Ruh? Why’s that?)

Rishwik: "Ha toh vajah toh vahi hai na."

(Well, she’s the reason, isn’t she?)

Rishwik settled back into his seat, watching Ruhanika as she oscillated her gaze between the two brothers, clearly puzzled by their interactions. Rudraksh didn't serve Ruhanika from the breakfast spread on the table, as he planned to feed her directly from his plate. Observing her confusion, Rishwik couldn't help but chuckle softly.

Rishwik: "Maine tumhe thanks isiliye kaha kyuki, humari suni si zindagi me bahar lekar aayi ho tum Angel. You are truly an Angel in our life."

(I thanked you because you brought spring into our otherwise dull lives, Angel. You truly are an angel for us.)

Ruhanika: "Inke bhai, aap hume Angel kyu bulate hai?? Humara naam Ruhanika hai."

(Why do you call me Angel? My name is Ruhanika.)

Rishwik: "Ha par tum ho toh Angel hi main toh Angel hi bolunga. Vaise bhi parivar walon ko toh pyaar se kuch bhi bulate hai na aur ab hum toh ek parivar hai."

(Yes, but you are an angel, so that’s what I’ll call you. Besides, family members call each other whatever they like, right? And now we’re a family.)

Ruhanika's smile widened at Rishwik’s comment about them being family now. As Rudraksh continued to feed her and himself, a genuine smile played on his lips. He listened with joy to the lighthearted exchanges between his wife and his brother. The atmosphere was filled with warmth and affection, making breakfast a truly delightful experience.

Ruhanika: "Inke bhai, hum aapko pyaar se kya bulaye??"

(His brother, What should I call you affectionately?)

Rishwik: "Areh, sab main bataunga toh tum kya sochogi. Pyaar se kya bulana hai tum soch lo. Aur sirf mujhe nahi bhai ko bhi kuch bulao pyaar se."

(Oh come on, if I tell you everything, what will you think? You should come up with a name yourself. And not just for me, think of something for my brother too.)

Ruhanika: "Inhe bhi?? Inhe bhi hum naam de sakte hai?? Par pati ka naam nahi lete na??"

(Him too? Can I give him a name as well? But don’t wives avoid saying their husbands' names?)

Rishwik: "Nahi, aur vaise bhi khud se pyaar se dusra nam de sakte hai, jaise maine tumhe Angel diya."

(No, and you can still give him a loving nickname, just like I call you Angel.)

Ruhanika: "Aap madat karenge humari inhe naam Dene me??"

(Will you help me choose a name for him?)

Rishwik: "Areh zarur, dekho tum bhai ko bahaut kuch bula sakti ho like baby, Shona, darling, bae, my love, Babu..."

(Oh, of course! You can call him things like baby, Shona, darling, bae, my love, Babu...)

Rishwik quickly fell silent as he felt the intensity of Rudraksh's deadly glare directed at him. Realizing he had pushed his brother's patience too far, he decided to keep his comments to himself and focused on his meal.

Ruhanika: "Nahi aap rehne dijiye, kitne Ajeeb naam hai ye sab, hum khud soch lenge."

(No, please leave it, those names are so strange. I’ll think of something myself.)

Rudraksh chuckled softly as he watched Rishwik sulk in response to Ruhanika's dislike of the names he suggested.

Rishwik: "Yaar aise muh pe beizzati??"

(Wow, insulting me right to my face?)

Rudraksh: "tussi Shukr Kari, Ruh aithe sadde naal baithi hai, Varna taudi aisi halat karni thi maine, agle 10 Dina nu kisi nu taudi ae shakal nahi dikha paunda tussi."

(You should be thankful Ruh is sitting here with us. Otherwise, I was ready to make sure no one saw your face for the next 10 days.)

Rishwik pouted in annoyance at his brother, clearly displeased.

Ruhanika: "Kiski kya?? Kiske muh pe??"

(What? Whose face? What are you saying?)

Rudraksh: "Aur tussi, Chhaddo onu sohneyo, tum khane pe dhyaan do, kitna dheere khati ho tum. Chalo muh kholo."

(Never mind, sweetheart. Just focus on eating. Why do you eat so slowly? Come on, open your mouth.)

Rudraksh resumed feeding Ruhanika. He carefully placed each bite in front of her, making sure she was comfortable and enjoying the meal.

Rishwik: "Jado vekkhi mainu daraunde hai, avi assi koi gallan nahi karna taude naal."

(yor always dominate me, I’m not talking to you anymore.)

Rudraksh heard Rishwik’s comment.

Rudraksh: "What Mr. Rishwik Malhotra??"

Rishwik: "Nothing Mr. Rudraksh Malhotra."

Rudraksh couldn’t help but smile at Rishwik’s playful antics. His amusement was evident as he continued to feed Ruhanika with a gentle touch. Meanwhile, Rishwik watched the couple with a broad grin, clearly delighted by their bonding and the warmth in the room.

Rishwik: "Angel tum chai logi ya coffee??"

(Angel, would you like tea or coffee?)

Ruhanika: "Nahi hum toh nahi Peete ye sab."

(No, I don’t drink those.)

Rishwik noticed Rudraksh’s knuckles turning white as he clenched his fists in frustration, evidently upset about how Ruhanika's relatives had treated her. To avoid spoiling the morning's mood, Rishwik decided to intervene and shift the conversation. He cleared his throat and started a new topic, hoping to redirect Rudraksh’s focus and keep the atmosphere light and positive.

Rishwik: "Areh phir toh tum chai rehne do vo bhai jaise buddhe log Peete hai, hum dono toh young hai na, aao main tumhe coffee pilata hu, bahaut pasand aayegi tumhe."

(Oh, then forget tea—that’s for old folks like my brother. We’re young, let me make you some coffee. You’ll love it.)

(Author: Rishwik ne thaan li hai aaj maar khane ki😂)

Rishwik stood up, holding his cup of coffee, and walked over to Ruhanika with a friendly smile.

Ruhanika: "Ye buddhe dikhte hai aapko?? Inke Bhai hume lagta hai aapko chashma lagana chahiye kyuki ye toh aap se bhi Sundar hai"

(He looks old to you? His brother, I think you need glasses because he’s even more handsome than you!)

Rudraksh, who had been glaring at Rishwik, suddenly sported a smirk as he saw Rishwik’s shocked expression. It was clear that Rishwik was taken aback by Ruhanika’s comment about his looks. With a dramatic flair, Rishwik placed the cup on the dining table and struck a pose with his hands on his hips, as if to assert his charm despite the playful criticism.

Rishwik: "Tum keh rahi ho main achcha nahi dikhta."

(So, are you saying I’m not handsome?)

Rishwik, with a mock glare and an exaggerated pout, said. His tone was playful, but his expression was one of mock indignation. Ruhanika, feeling a bit scared by the sudden attention, lowered her head.

Ruhanika: "Hum..e maaf k..ar dijiye, hum..Ara vo mat..lab nahi tha."

(Pl..please forgive me, th..that’s not what I meant!)

Seeing that Ruhanika was getting scared by Rishwik’s playful mock glare, Rudraksh’s expression shifted to one of concern. He immediately reached over and slapped Rishwik lightly on the arm, signaling him to stop. Rishwik, understanding the shift in mood, quickly knelt in front of Ruhanika and held his ears in a gesture of apology, his playful demeanor turning sincere. He looked up at her with a sheepish grin, trying to reassure her with his now gentle eyes.

Rishwik: "Heyy, Angel main toh mazaak kar raha tha, tum daro nahi please."

(Hey, Angel, I was just joking! Don’t be scared, please.)

Ruhanika’s eyes softened as she saw Rishwik’s genuine gesture of apology. She glanced at Rudraksh, who gave her a reassuring blink, encouraging her. With trembling hands, she reached out and gently took Rishwik's hand in hers. Rishwik remained still, respecting her space and ensuring she felt comfortable. When Ruhanika didn't pull away and instead, a smile gradually spread across her face, it warmed the hearts of both Malhotra brothers. Seeing her smile, Rudraksh and Rishwik exchanged pleased looks, their earlier tension dissolving into a moment of shared happiness.

Ruhanika: "Koi baat nahi inke Bhai, aap khade ho jaiye."

(It’s alright his brother, now get up.)

Rishwik: "Nahi pehle bolo tumne mujhe maaf kar diya."

(Not until you tell me you’ve forgiven me.)

Ruhanika: "Par hum naraz nahi hai aapke, hume nahi aata na naraz hona, inhe bataya tha humne."

(But I’m not upset with you. I told him earlier that I don’t know how to be angry.)

Ruhanika spoke softly, still holding Rishwik’s hand. Rishwik chuckled, finding her response endearing. With a playful grin, he gently pulled his hand away and then reached over to pinch her cheeks.

Rishwik: "You’re such an epitome of innocence."

Ruhanika glanced between Rudraksh and Rishwik, both of whom were smiling warmly at her. Their genuine expressions of affection made her heart swell with happiness and she smiled back.

Rishwik: "Areh chalo, ye coffee piyo tumhe pasand aayegi, maine banayi hai, nahi pasand aayi toh mera Naam bhi Rishwik Malhotra nahi."

(Here, drink this coffee. You’ll love it, I made it. If you don’t, I’ll change my name from Rishwik Malhotra.)

Ruhanika: "Inke bhai toh aapka naam kya hai??"

(His brother, then what is your name?)

Before Ruhanika can say anything Rishwik placed the cup on her lips and made her drink the coffee with his other hand behind her head to support. She took one sip and then looked at Rishwik.

Rishwik: "Bewakoof hu main meri baaton pe dhyaan mat do, piyo ye lo."

(Don’t listen to my nonsense, just drink it.)

Ruhanika: "Jiii??"

(What?)

Before Ruhanika could say anything, Rishwik swiftly brought the cup to her lips, guiding her to sip the coffee. He used his other hand to support the back of her head, ensuring she could drink comfortably. As she took her first sip, she looked at Rishwik with a mix of surprise and appreciation.

Rishwik: "Kaisa laga?? Please tell me mujhe mera naam nahi badalna."

(How do you like it? Please tell me, I don’t want to change my name.)

Ruhanika: "Ye toh kitna meetha hai, hume meetha pasand hai. Shukriya inke Bhai."

(It’s really sweet, and I love sweet things. Thank you so much.)

Rishwik grinned.

Rishwik:  "I knew it, after all, I’m the best."

"Swaagat Nahi karoge humara???"

(Won’t you welcome me?)

As Ruhanika looked at Rishwik, a voice came from behind, breaking the moment.

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Precap for next week: Ruhi ki kahani ke kuch panne.🌸

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I had planned to update the next chapter tomorrow, but the government has canceled the holiday in my state, so I won’t be able to update it. I’m really sorry about that!

Thank you all so much for the overwhelming love on the previous chapter. While I couldn’t reply to every comment, I’ve read and appreciated each one. Your support means a lot to me.

I’ll see you all again on Saturday with another update!

Target:

Comments: 100

Votes: 300

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Happy reading 🌸💙

Lot's of Love 🫂💙